Difficult Events: Guidelines for Talking with Children and Teens
By ETR | October 2, 2017
Many of us started out our work week first hearing the devastating news out of Las Vegas. Educators and others working with children and teens may understandably feel discouraged about having to explain, one more time, how unpredictable and violent the world can sometimes be.
There are some good sources of advice for talking with children and teens about events such as these. Below are links to three we think are excellent. The focus is on parents and family, but these guidelines will work for educators and care providers as well.
Consider sharing one or more of these resources with colleagues and the families of your students/clients on this troubling day.
We wish you strength and resourcefulness today, and in your work in the future.
National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement
Talking to Kids About School and Community Shootings
They also offer materials and guidance for schools in crisis, as well as resources to help schools prepare to support children before crisis events happen.
Greater Good Magazine
Nine Tips for Talking to Kids About Trauma
American Psychological Association
How to Talk to Children About Difficult News
PBS Parents
Talking with Kids About News: Strategies for Talking and Listening
